Residents in Greenwich are currently in dispute regarding a proposed extension to a Grade II listed property located in south-east London.
The planned renovations for the £1.5 million residence would add two additional floors above the existing single-storey entrance, which has its origins in the Georgian era.
The homeowners assert that the extension will not detract from the integrity of the listed building. In contrast, their neighbor expresses concern that this development could result in the loss of the last remaining example of a distinctive architectural feature.
The local planning committee of Greenwich Council is set to review the application, which has attracted 24 objections and four letters of support, on Tuesday.
Historical Significance and Community Concerns
The property at 25 Gloucester Circus was designed by the Georgian architect Michael Searles in the late 18th century. The couple residing there claims that the extension is crucial for modernizing the house and transforming it into their „dream family home.“
Opponents of the extension argue that it would obscure the original design intent of the building and result in the loss of the last one-storey double entrance.
One neighbor lamented the potential loss of this unique feature, describing it as „very sad“ and emphasizing its rarity as „the last of its kind.“
She added, „It is a regular stop on guided walks of Greenwich. Groups of people stop outside, and it’s lovely. People point at how beautiful the house is, particularly the gap, and they want to take photos of the two front doors.“
Expert Opinions on the Proposal
The Georgian Group has expressed that the proposed extension would negatively impact the significance of both 25 and 26 Gloucester Circus, as well as the West Greenwich Conservation Area.
Eddie Waller, the senior conservation adviser for London and South East England at the group, stated, „The survival of the recessed single-storey double-fronted entrance to nos 25-26 contributes to the significance of the building and the group value with no 26. This element reflects the original design intentions of Michael Searles and is evident in his drawings for the circus.“
However, Historic England has indicated that the proposal would cause „less than substantial“ harm to the historical significance of the listed terrace.
When Gloucester Circus was initially designed and constructed, there were four instances of the one-storey twin entrances. It is believed that extensions above other entrances were added during the Victorian period.
The plans have been recommended for approval by the local authorities. In addition, there is a growing interest in the area, as highlighted in In South London: Rising Demand for Homes in Green Neighborhood, and further developments are on the horizon with 220 New Homes Planned: South London Leisure Centre Construction Set for 2026.
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Bildquelle: Pham Ngoc Anh auf Pexels
